Last Updated on April 25, 2025 by tanya

Hazards Faced by Painters and Decorators

 

How to Start a Personal Injury Claim

 

Although they play a key role in transforming homes, businesses, and public spaces, there are hazards faced by painters and decorators on the job. This creative profession includes risks such as working on a high-rise buildings to potential eye injuries if splashed with paint.

Employers are required by law to follow strict safety protocols and it’s important to take the necessary precautions at work to avoid accidents and injuries. This may include using the correct protective gear and having proper training.

However, accidents happen and if you have been injured through no fault of yours, you may consider starting a personal injury claim for compensation. Our friendly team at First Personal Injury can advise you and we partner with lawyers who offer a ‘No Win, No Fee’ service.

 

Common Hazards Faced by Painters and Decorators

Slips, Trips, and Falls

One of the most common hazards for painters and decorators is slipping, tripping, or falling while working. This can happen when you’re working at height, standing on ladders or scaffolding, or walking on uneven surfaces.

 

Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

Painters often work with products like paints, solvents, and adhesives that contain chemicals which can be harmful to health if exposure is not properly controlled. This may include exposure to solvent fumes or burns and skin irritation from paints or stripping agents.

 

Lifting and Carrying Heavy Materials

A large part of a painter’s and decorator’s job involves carrying heavy tools, materials, and equipment. Whether it’s buckets of paint, ladders, or large rolls of wallpaper, lifting and carrying these items – doing these tasks proper technique can cause strain on the back, shoulders, and knees.

Incorrect lifting techniques or repetitive movements may also result in musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains and strains or even herniated discs.

 

Electric Shock

While working with electrical outlets, light fixtures, or installing wallpaper near wires, painters and decorators run the risk of accidental contact and shock with live electrical circuits.

 

Working at Heights

Working at height is an essential part of the job for painters and decorators, but it also presents significant risks. From ladders to scaffolding to using platform lifts, the danger of falling remains constant. It remains one of the top causes of injuries in the industry.

 

Eye Injuries

Eye injuries are a concern for painters, especially when working with tools that may emit debris, splinters or dust. Paint splashes can also cause serious eye injuries. Additionally spraying paint can lead to toxic fumes entering the eyes.

 

 

When Can You Start a Personal Injury Claim?

The ability to file and claim for compensation depends on various factors. This includes whether you were employed or self-employed, and the circumstances surrounding your injury. Here’s what you need to know:

If You Are an Employed Painter or Decorator

As an employed worker, your employer has a duty to protect your health and safety. This means they should ensure that you have a safe working environment, proper training, and appropriate safety equipment.

 

• Employer’s Responsibility: Your employer must provide you with adequate protective clothing, training in the use of tools and equipment, and ensure that hazards are properly assessed and mitigated.
• Reporting the Injury: If you are injured on the job, report it to your employer immediately. Ensure that your injury is documented in the accident book or report. This will provide important evidence if you decide to pursue a claim.
• Time Limits: For employed workers, the time limit to start a claim is typically three years from the date of the injury or from when the injury was first discovered.

If You Are a Self-Employed Painter or Decorator

If you’re self-employed, the process is a bit different. As your own boss, you are responsible for ensuring your own safety and taking precautions to avoid accidents. However, if you are injured while working on a site, either due to unsafe working conditions or equipment failure, you may still be able to make a personal injury claim.

Even if you are self-employed, you might be able to pursue a claim if your injury was caused by the negligence of the property owner, client, or contractor overseeing the site. This would be if they failed to maintain a safe working environment or supply necessary safety measures.

 

‘No Win, No Fee’ Claims

Whether employed or self-employed, many personal injury solicitors work on a no win, no fee basis. This means you won’t have to pay legal fees unless you win your case. This is a good option for those who may not be able to afford upfront legal costs.

 

Contact Us For An Initial, No-Obligation Consultation

It is important to remember that a personal injury lawyer can assess your claim and advise whether it is valid. Compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost earnings and pain and suffering.

Reaching out to a trusted claims company can make a significant difference in your journey ahead. 

📞 Call us today to have your case assessed.

⚖️ We partner with expert lawyers who operate on a No Win, No Fee basis, ensuring you get the support you need without financial risk.

💻 Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly team.